House Sparrow

The introduced house sparrow, or tiu, is closely associated with buildings and farmland throughout New Zealand. Males have a grey crown, chestnut nape and black bib; females and juveniles are plain brown with a pale eyebrow and all have a stout conical bill.

It is widespread in cities, towns and farmland on the main islands and many inhabited offshore islands. Sparrows feed socially on seeds, grain, scraps and insects, nesting in cavities in buildings, trees and other structures.

Outdoor eating areas, farmyards, streets and gardens throughout settled New Zealand are reliable.